These Are The Most Iconic High School Movies Of The 1980s

We’re taking a trip down memory lane and looking at the best high school films from the 1980s. This era was packed with cinematic gems that captured the essence of teenage life, exploring love, friendship, rebellion, and the ups and downs of navigating the treacherous halls of high school. 

As TV shows like Stranger Things are making younger audiences fall in love with the 1980s and the high school genre, here is a list for you to get stuck into to relieve the best teen moments of the decade.

The Breakfast Club (John Hughes, 1985)

"The Breakfast Club" brings together five high school students from different social cliques who find themselves in Saturday detention. Throughout the day, they break down barriers, confront stereotypes, and form unexpected connections. The film explores themes of identity, teenage angst, and the struggles of adolescence. "The Breakfast Club" is regarded as one of the best high school films from the 1980s for its authentic portrayal of teenage emotions, its memorable characters, and its exploration of the complexities of teenage identity.

Sixteen Candles (John Hughes, 1984)

"Sixteen Candles" follows Samantha Baker, a high school sophomore whose family completely forgets her sixteenth birthday due to her sister's wedding. As Samantha navigates the ups and downs of school life, she develops a crush on a senior named Jake Ryan. The film touches upon themes of teenage longing, social anxiety, and the search for acceptance. "Sixteen Candles" is regarded as one of the best high school films from the 1980s for its relatable depiction of teenage experiences, its witty humour, and its exploration of the awkwardness and joys of adolescence.

Pretty in Pink (Howard Deutch, 1986)

“Pretty in Pink" centres around Andie Walsh, a high school student from a working-class background, who falls for Blane, a popular and wealthy boy. Amidst the pressures of social class and peer judgement, Andie navigates the challenges of her romantic feelings while dealing with her unconventional friendship with Duckie, a quirky outsider. The film delves into themes of love, friendship, and the societal pressures faced by teenagers. "Pretty in Pink" is regarded as one of the best high school films from the 1980s for its memorable characters, its exploration of class dynamics, and its portrayal of the complexities of teenage relationships.

Weird Science (John Hughes, 1985)

"Weird Science" tells the story of two socially awkward teenage boys, Gary and Wyatt, who use their computer to create a perfect woman named Lisa. Through their creation, they embark on a series of misadventures and self-discovery. The film combines elements of comedy, science fiction, and teenage wish fulfilment. "Weird Science" is regarded as one of the best high school films from the 1980s for its imaginative premise, humour, and its exploration of teenage desires, friendship, and personal growth.

The New Kids (Sean S. Cunningham, 1985)

"The New Kids" follows two siblings, Loren and Abby, who move to a new town and become targets of a violent gang at their new high school. As they face relentless harassment and intimidation, the siblings must find the strength to fight back and protect themselves. The film explores themes of resilience, survival, and the lengths one will go to defend family and identity. "The New Kids" is regarded as one of the high school films from the 1980s that delves into darker themes, showcasing the determination and courage of the protagonists in the face of adversity.

Some Kind of Wonderful (Howard Deutch, 1987)

"Some Kind of Wonderful" centres around Keith Nelson, a high school student who harbours a secret crush on his best friend, Watts, while being pursued by Amanda, a popular and wealthy girl. The film explores themes of unrequited love, social expectations, and the complexities of relationships. "Some Kind of Wonderful" is regarded as one of the best high school films from the 1980s for its heartfelt exploration of teenage emotions, its examination of societal pressures, and its focus on the importance of self-discovery and staying true to oneself.

Porky's (Bob Clark, 1981)

"Porky's" is a raunchy comedy set in the 1950s that follows a group of high school friends on a quest for mischief and sexual escapades. The film revolves around their attempts to get into the notorious Porky's strip club and the misadventures that ensue. "Porky's" is known for its crude humour, coming-of-age themes, and its depiction of teenage rebellion and exploration of sexuality.

Teen Wolf (Rod Daniel, 1985)

"Teen Wolf" tells the story of Scott Howard, a high school student who discovers that he comes from a family of werewolves and inherits the ability to transform into a wolf. As Scott embraces his newfound powers, he becomes popular and excels in basketball. The film combines elements of comedy, fantasy, and teen romance. "Teen Wolf" is known for its blend of supernatural elements, lighthearted humour, and its exploration of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique qualities.

Stand and Deliver (Ramón Menéndez, 1988)

"Stand and Deliver" is based on the true story of Jaime Escalante, a dedicated maths teacher who takes on the challenge of teaching calculus to a group of underprivileged students at a tough Los Angeles high school. Despite facing scepticism and obstacles, Escalante inspires his students to achieve academic excellence and overcome societal expectations. The film explores themes of education, perseverance, and the power of belief in oneself. "Stand and Deliver" is known for its inspiring true story, powerful performances, and its portrayal of the transformative impact of a dedicated teacher.

Teen Witch (Dorian Walker, 1989)

"Teen Witch" follows the story of Louise Miller, an unpopular high school student who discovers on her sixteenth birthday that she is a descendant of witches. With her newfound magical powers, Louise uses spells and charms to transform her life and gain popularity at school. The film combines elements of comedy, romance, and fantasy. "Teen Witch" is known for its campy charm, catchy musical numbers, and its exploration of teenage desires, self-confidence, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Heathers (Michael Lehmann, 1988)

"Heathers" is a dark comedy that satirises the social hierarchy and cliques within high school. The film follows Veronica Sawyer, a member of the popular clique, as she becomes disillusioned with her shallow friends, the Heathers. When she meets a rebellious outsider named J.D., they embark on a dark and twisted journey of revenge and self-discovery. "Heathers" is known for its biting social commentary, subversive humour, and its exploration of themes such as teen angst, peer pressure, and the consequences of conformity.

Dead Poets Society (Peter Weir, 1989)

"Dead Poets Society" is set in a conservative boarding school in the late 1950s and centres around an English teacher named John Keating, who inspires his students to think for themselves, embrace their passions, and seize the day. The film explores themes of individualism, self-expression, and the conflict between conformity and personal freedom. "Dead Poets Society" is known for its powerful performances, poetic storytelling, and its profound exploration of the transformative power of education, art, and the pursuit of dreams.

Lean on Me (John G. Avildsen, 1989)

"Lean on Me" is based on the true story of Joe Clark, a dedicated principal who takes charge of a troubled high school plagued by violence and low academic performance. Through his unorthodox methods and unwavering commitment, Clark transforms the school and inspires the students to believe in themselves. The film explores themes of leadership, education, and the power of determination. "Lean on Me" is known for its inspiring true story, strong performances, and its portrayal of the impact a dedicated educator can have on a school community.

Ferris Bueller's Day Off (John Hughes, 1986)

"Ferris Bueller's Day Off" follows the mischievous and charismatic high school student Ferris Bueller as he decides to skip school and embark on an adventure-filled day in Chicago with his girlfriend and best friend. As they dodge the efforts of the school principal to catch them, Ferris teaches his friends and the audience the importance of embracing life and making the most of every moment. The film is known for its iconic scenes, witty humour, and its celebration of youthful rebellion and the pursuit of fun and freedom.

My Best Friend Is a Vampire (Jimmy Huston, 1987)

"My Best Friend Is a Vampire" tells the story of a high school student named Jeremy who, after a chance encounter with a beautiful girl, discovers that he is turning into a vampire. As Jeremy tries to navigate his newfound vampiric nature while maintaining a normal life, he faces various challenges and adventures. The film combines elements of comedy, romance, and horror. "My Best Friend Is a Vampire" is known for its lighthearted and fun take on the vampire genre, its humorous moments, and its exploration of themes like friendship, self-acceptance, and the challenges of adolescence.

The Karate Kid (John G. Avildsen, 1984)

"The Karate Kid" centres around Daniel LaRusso, a teenager who moves to a new town and becomes the target of bullying. With the help of his wise and skilled martial arts teacher, Mr. Miyagi, Daniel learns karate and gains the confidence to stand up to his bullies. The film explores themes of mentorship, perseverance, and the pursuit of inner strength. "The Karate Kid" is known for its iconic training montages, memorable characters, and its inspiring underdog story that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Say Anything (Cameron Crowe, 1989)

"Say Anything" follows the love story between Lloyd Dobler, an optimistic and unconventional high school graduate, and Diane Court, a smart and ambitious valedictorian. As they navigate the uncertainties of their future and face opposition from Diane's overprotective father, Lloyd must prove himself worthy of Diane's love. The film explores themes of first love, societal expectations, and the pursuit of personal dreams. "Say Anything" is known for its memorable romantic moments, heartfelt performances, and its portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of young love.

Better Off Dead (Savage Steve Holland, 1985)

"Better Off Dead" follows the misadventures of Lane Meyer, a high school student who is devastated when his girlfriend breaks up with him. Throughout the film, Lane navigates the challenges of love, family dynamics, and existential crises with a humorous and surreal twist. The film combines elements of comedy and romance. "Better Off Dead" is known for its offbeat humour, quirky characters, and its satirical take on the teenage experience, capturing the angst and absurdity of adolescence.

My Bodyguard (Tony Bill, 1980)

"My Bodyguard" centres around Clifford Peache, a new student at a high school who becomes the target of a bully named Moody. In his search for protection, Clifford befriends a misunderstood loner named Ricky, rumoured to have a fearsome bodyguard. The film explores themes of friendship, courage, and standing up against bullies. "My Bodyguard" is known for its heartfelt story, genuine performances, and its exploration of themes related to teenage insecurities, the power dynamics of school life, and the importance of finding allies in unexpected places.

Hoosiers (David Anspaugh, 1986)

"Hoosiers" is based on a true story and revolves around a small-town high school basketball team and their determined coach. Despite facing scepticism and challenges, the team rallies together to overcome obstacles and compete in the state championship. The film explores themes of teamwork, perseverance, and the power of dreams. "Hoosiers" is known for its inspiring underdog story, superb performances, and its portrayal of the transformative impact of sports, highlighting the resilience and unity that can be found in a team striving for greatness.

Back to the Future (Robert Zemeckis, 1985)

"Back to the Future" follows the adventures of Marty McFly, a high school student who travels back in time to the 1950s using a DeLorean time machine created by his eccentric friend, Doc Brown. In the past, Marty encounters his parents and must ensure their romance flourishes to preserve his own existence. The film combines elements of science fiction, comedy, and adventure, creating a beloved and iconic story. "Back to the Future" is known for its engaging plot, memorable characters, and its seamless blend of humour, excitement, and nostalgia.

Dirty Dancing (Emile Ardolino, 1987)

"Dirty Dancing" is set in the summer of 1963 and follows Frances "Baby" Houseman, a young woman who develops a forbidden romance with Johnny Castle, a charismatic dance instructor. Against the backdrop of a Catskills resort, the film explores themes of love, freedom, and breaking social barriers. "Dirty Dancing" is known for its memorable music, passionate dance sequences, and its portrayal of the transformative power of dance and self-expression.

Stand by Me (Rob Reiner, 1986)

Based on a novella by Stephen King, "Stand by Me" is a coming-of-age film that follows four young boys as they embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. Along the way, they confront personal fears, deepen their friendship, and learn important life lessons. The film explores themes of friendship, loss, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. "Stand by Me" is known for its poignant storytelling, memorable performances, and its ability to capture the nostalgia and bittersweet moments of youth.

The Outsiders (Francis Ford Coppola, 1983)

"The Outsiders" is based on the novel by S.E. Hinton and depicts the lives of two rival teenage gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, in 1960s Oklahoma. The film explores themes of class conflict, friendship, and the struggles faced by marginalised youth. With an ensemble cast of young actors who would later become Hollywood stars, "The Outsiders" is known for its emotional storytelling, powerful performances, and its portrayal of the universal themes of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of adolescence.

Fast Times at Ridgemont High (Amy Heckerling, 1982)

"Fast Times at Ridgemont High" is a comedy-drama that offers an ensemble portrayal of the lives of high school students in Southern California. The film follows various characters as they navigate relationships, sexuality, and the challenges of young adulthood. It tackles themes of peer pressure, identity, and the pursuit of independence. "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" is known for its realistic portrayal of teenage life, its memorable characters, and its blend of humour and drama.

Fame (Alan Parker, 1980)

"Fame" takes place at the High School of Performing Arts in New York City and follows a group of talented students as they pursue their dreams in the fields of music, dance, and acting. The film explores their struggles, friendships, and sacrifices as they strive for success and self-discovery. "Fame" is known for its energetic musical numbers, realistic portrayal of the aspirations and challenges faced by young artists, and its celebration of the transformative power of the arts.

The 1980s and its iconic high school films left a clear mark on the coming-of-age genre and blew most of the previous decades out of the water. From many John Hughes' tales to unforgettable musical stories like Fame, these high school movies will transport you back to a time of big hair, shoulder pads, and unforgettable characters even if you weren’t born then.

They made us laugh, cry, and reflect on the universal struggles and triumphs of teenage life. So, whether you're a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, these high school films from the 1980s are timeless treasures that continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the enduring power of adolescence. 

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